I feel better after listening to the radio interview. Apparently OWN will have no access to Rams Park, or training activities, or other Rams players - anything related to football activities. It will focus solely on Michael Sam, away from the practice field. We may question Sam's judgment, but I don't know that any employer would have the authority to control an employee's off-the-field, away from work activities; so long as they are not illegal.
Another thing I hadn't thought of - we as Rams fans are not the documentary's target audience. It will be a six-part documentary, but I see it somewhat similar to the "It gets better" series on youtube - where celebrities reassure young people grappling with their identity that it does get better. I think that's the target audience. Even Michael himself said in the Rams press conference that he had not discussed his sexuality with his father. Both of my children are recent college graduates; and they have numerous stories of gay or lesbian classmates who hadn't told their parents, or in some cases were near-suicidal because of their torment. I don't think most of us who don't have to deal with such issues can even imagine the conflict of such a problem; and I think that's the target audience; the intent being to show that, regardless of one's sexual orientation, there is a place for you; you can be comfortable in your own skin.
And I don't know much about Oprah Winfrey or OWN network, but have always gathered that there is nothing "Jerry Springer" about her, or her programs. There is a social conscience and sense of social responsibility, beyond mere titilation.
The proof will be in the pudding, I guess; but I'm much more concerned about the first few draft picks than I am about Michael Sam. This is an area where we can maybe learn from our children - "what's the big deal?" In my book, the Rams did the NFL a HUGE favor by drafting Sam; it apparently was NOT orchestrated from NFL offices; the pick was legitimate, because Sam was SEC defensive player of the year, so clearly not without skills whatsoever; and if the Rams cut him, they're inoculated from any claims of bigotry - it will unquestionably be football-related. We'll just have to see. Mizzou didn't see it as a problem; I'm hoping it won't be now, either.
Time will tell, I guess; a certain amount of "circus" was inevitable; and we'll soon see if it's a problem. I can't imagine that Greg Robinson, or Aaron Donald, or any of the other Rams players battling for a roster spot will let it affect them in any way.
